Q.(a) Mention the various modern methods of seed protection. OR

(a) Modern seed-protection methods include treatment, coating, hermetic/controlled-atmosphere/cold storage and desiccant use; (b) a neem-based organic pesticide (NSKE) is prepared by soaking crushed neem kernels in water, filtering and adding a soap emulsifier, and must be handled fresh and with care.

(a) Modern methods of seed protection

1. Seed treatment: seeds are treated with fungicides, insecticides, or biological agents (bio-fertilisers/bio-pesticides) before storage or sowing, to protect against seed-borne and soil-borne pathogens and pests.
2. Seed coating and pelleting: seeds are coated with a protective layer (containing fungicide, insecticide, or nutrients) that also gives them a uniform size and shape, aiding precision sowing and protection.
3. Hermetic (airtight) storage: seeds are stored in sealed, airtight containers or bags (e.g. hermetic storage bags), which exclude oxygen and thereby suppress insect activity and fungal growth without needing chemical fumigants.
4. Controlled/modified atmosphere storage: the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the storage environment are adjusted to levels that reduce insect metabolism and activity, helping preserve seed viability.
5. Cold storage: storing seeds at low temperature slows down their metabolic rate and reduces fungal growth and insect infestation, extending viability.
6. Moisture control: use of desiccants such as silica gel within storage containers keeps seed moisture content low, which is critical since high moisture promotes fungal growth and loss of viability.
7. Botanical/bio-pesticide protection: use of eco-friendly, plant-derived pesticides (such as neem-based preparations) to protect stored seed from pests without leaving harmful chemical residues.

(b) Preparation and handling of an organic pesticide (Neem Seed Kernel Extract, NSKE)

Preparation:

1. Collect well-dried neem seeds/kernels and remove the outer seed coat.
2. Crush or grind the kernels into a coarse powder.
3. Soak the powdered kernel in water (commonly at about a 5% concentration) overnight, allowing the active compounds to leach into the water.
4. Filter the soaked mixture through a clean cloth to remove the solid residue, retaining the liquid extract.
5. Add a small quantity of soap or a mild detergent solution to the filtered extract; this acts as an emulsifier/sticking agent, helping the extract spread evenly and adhere to plant surfaces when sprayed.
6. Dilute the extract to the required concentration with water and use it directly as a spray on the affected crop to control pests such as aphids, borers and other insect pests.

Handling: …